After M3 rebels and their Rwandan allies took control of Goma last January, the Goma International Airport was shut. Air traffic between Kisangani (Tshopo) and Goma (North Kivu) subsequently halted, significantly impacting passenger and freight transport in the region. 

The situation has plunged 13 airlines and travel agencies operating in Kisangani into severe financial difficulties, according to their representatives. During a February 25 visit by Tshopo’s provincial Minister of Transport and Communication, Mogenya Baraka, these stakeholders expressed concerns over the absence of air links to Goma, which they claim has crippled their operations.

They also criticized the imposition of a tax on certain goods destined for Kinshasa, including Fumbwa, a popular vegetable in the region. Quoted by Radio Okapi, the head of Congo Airways labeled the tax “non-regulatory,” arguing that it is not listed in any official nomenclature. He further noted that this practice has inflated cargo flight costs, compounding the challenges faced by companies already struggling due to the suspension of flights.

Minister Baraka acknowledged the concerns but clarified that revising tax regulations falls under the jurisdiction of the Provincial Assembly.

In 2021, following complaints from airlines about high taxes and operating costs, the government introduced relief measures such as exemptions on aircraft spare parts, reduced parking fees at major airports, and a cut in VAT on air transport from 16% to 8%. However, these measures have done little to address the unique challenges posed by ongoing conflict in North Kivu.

This article was initially published in French by Ronsard Luabeya (intern)

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho